Restaurant Gary Danko

Restaurant Gary Danko, fine French cuisine in Fisherman's Wharf

Restaurant Gary Danko is a fine dining restaurant located in the Fisherman's Wharf neighborhood of San Francisco. Its offering combines classic French cuisine with a thoughtful and inventive use of local ingredients, and service described in its own presentation as personable yet impeccable. Chef Gary Danko sums up his philosophy in a phrase from the site: "You don't just open a great restaurant; it's a constant work in progress."

The establishment has received a Grand Award from Wine Spectator, AAA's Five Diamond rating, and the Relais & Châteaux designation. It has also earned several James Beard Awards, including Best New Restaurant, Best Service, and Best Chef – California.

Tasting menu and dining experience

The main offering is a tasting menu, accompanied by a selection of wines and cheeses. The venue is described as a warm space, enveloped by orchids and vibrant artworks, where the evening has an intimate and theatrical character, with nods to the classic dining experience but with a focus on fresh, seasonal products from the region.

Private dining room for small groups

The restaurant has a private dining room for between 5 and 10 guests, designed for special celebrations, business dinners, or gatherings of friends. Service is provided by dedicated staff. Two seatings are offered: from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. and from 8:45 p.m. to 11:45 p.m. It is possible to reserve the private dining room for the entire evening by contacting the reservations team.

Reservations and visit conditions

Reservations are managed through OpenTable and also by phone or email. The reservations team is available Thursday through Monday, from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m.; the restaurant is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Table reservations are available between 5 p.m. and 10 p.m., Thursday through Monday. The bar opens from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.

The restaurant is closed on July 4th, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Eve, and may adjust its weekly schedule. Guests with dining room reservations are asked to order a minimum of three courses per person from the dinner menu. The corkage policy is $100 per 750 ml bottle, with a limit of two bottles per party; for magnums, $200 with a limit of one bottle. No valet parking service is offered; public parking is available at 655 Beach Street and at Ghirardelli Square. A 7% surcharge applies for San Francisco labor mandates.

Chef Gary Danko

Gary Danko is described on the site as one of the most talented and respected chefs in the United States. His interest in cooking began in his mother's kitchen in upstate New York, where he watched her balance flavors with simple seasonings and fresh farm ingredients. He trained with Madeleine Kamman, a French-born cook who taught him the techniques, science, and history of French cuisine. He is a 1977 graduate of the Culinary Institute of Hyde Park, New York.

Before opening his own restaurant, he worked as a chef at the Tucker Hill Inn in Vermont and led award-winning kitchens in the Bay Area, including Beringer Vineyards and The Ritz-Carlton San Francisco. Even at that stage, he was dedicated to seasonal, local, and nearby products before that practice became widespread. At his restaurant, these ingredients remain the foundation of an adventurous and lively cuisine, without losing their prominence. He maintains close relationships with artisanal cheese, meat, and agricultural suppliers, and incorporates traditions, techniques, products, and seasonings from around the world. His achievements include three James Beard Foundation Awards, including Best Chef – California.

Gift cards and employment

The restaurant offers gift cards starting at $100 and in increments of $50. They can be purchased in immediate digital format or in a handcrafted format signed by Chef Gary Danko, via a form. For those seeking employment, the company states that it hires profiles such as maitre d', sommelier, hosts, captains, back waiters, runners, chefs, sous chefs, pastry chefs, line cooks, dishwashers, reservation agents, and administrative staff; applications are sent by email or by postal mail to the restaurant's address.

Location and contact

800 North Point Street (@ Hyde Street), San Francisco, CA 94109 · Phone: 415-749-2060 · Email: reservations@garydanko.com